If you're looking for an easy and relaxing family-friendly spring break destination, Kure Beach is the place. With exciting attractions, natural beauty and plenty of kid-friendly activities, here are nine ways to enjoy a fun-filled spring break with your family in Kure Beach.
1. Discover Life Under the Sea – The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, a must-see attraction in Kure Beach, gives the whole family an up-close look at aquatic wonders with interactive exhibits, a touch tank and stunning displays of marine life, including sea turtles and stingrays. Be sure to visit Milli and Binx, the Aquarium's Asian small-clawed otters, and then stop by the Adventure Reef outdoor playground. The Aquarium also offers a behind-the-scenes tour for ages 8 and up, providing a unique look at the support systems and exhibits from behind the curtain. While you’re there, grab a bite from SharkBites, the Aquarium’s café and visit the gift shop before heading out for a souvenir.
2. See History Come to Life – Visit Fort Fisher State Historic Site to sneak in a mini history lesson about the fort's involvement in the Civil War. The newly renovated Visitors Center features a two-story space filled with immersive exhibits, including “Through Their Eyes,” which traces the region's history from pre-colonial times to World War II through personal narratives. Explore the restored earthworks and cannons along the Tour Trail, lined with exhibit panels detailing the site's significance. Throughout the year, costumed guides share stories of the infantry, teach participants drills with wooden rifles and demonstrate the steps of firing Civil War-era guns on guided tours.
3. Explore a State Park – Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a hidden sanctuary where families can spend time together outdoors and explore nearly 6 miles of scenic trails and untouched shoreline. Hike the Basin Trail, which winds through salt marshes and a maritime forest, passing by a World War II-era bunker once inhabited by the legendary Fort Fisher Hermit. Search for Kure Beach's unique coquina rock formation, a rare moss-covered outcrop visible only at low tide near Fort Fisher State Recreation Area.
4. Go Fish – Cast a line off the historic 711-foot Kure Beach Fishing Pier. The Bait Shop and Store at the base of the pier, open seasonally beginning in April, offers rod and reel rentals for all ages, bait and tackle, and a concessions stand with snacks and ice cream. Whether you reel in a big catch or just enjoy the ocean breeze, this is a great way to relax and bond as a family. Before heading out, stop into Hi-Tech Arcade to burn extra energy with classic, family-friendly games.
5. Picnic at Ocean Front Park – Pack a lunch and head to Ocean Front Park & Pavilion, Kure Beach's largest public green space. Enjoy shade under the pavilion while snacking, then let the kids burn off energy at the pirate ship play area. The whole family can take in the ocean views and unwind on the boardwalk's porch swings.
6. Kayak or Paddleboard Through Calm Waters – Kayak Carolina offers adventurous eco-excursions to Zeke's Island Reserve, an important coastal habitat accessible only by water. Paddle through intertidal landscapes, encounter diverse shorebird species and search for shark teeth on the Zeke's Island Family Adventure tour, designed for all ages and experience levels.
7. Relax on the Beach – For a fun-filled day along Kure Beach's sandy shore, visit nearby Pleasure Island Rentals to grab all the necessary gear for a relaxing beach day. The shop offers a wide selection of beach essentials, including chairs, umbrellas, coolers, boogie boards and beach games. Find a nearby public beach access point to set up your perfect spot for building sandcastles, playing games or simply soaking up the sun.
8. Enjoy a Family Meal – Fuel up for your spring break adventures as a family with delicious bites from Kure Beach’s restaurants. Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill offers a laid-back atmosphere with a menu that caters to all ages, featuring fresh seafood, burgers and kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and mac & cheese. For a casual, beachside meal, the walk-up Beach House Burgers serves classic American favorites, including juicy burgers, hot dogs and ice cream. Freddie’s Restaurant is a local favorite known for its Italian comfort food and homemade pasta dishes, perfect for picky eaters.
9. Find a Family-Friendly Place to Stay – Kure Beach offers a variety of vacation rentals, from cozy beach cottages to spacious oceanfront homes. For a hotel stay with invisible service, consider Kure Lighthouse Inn, which features rooms that sleep up to six guests, with one king-size bed, one queen-size bed and a double sleeper sofa. The property's outdoor fireplace provides the perfect setting to end and recap the day with loved ones.
For more family-friendly fun during a spring break, check out offerings in nearby Carolina Beach, from their vintage seaside Boardwalk to another waterside state park.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Kure Beach is the perfect spring break escape for families looking to soak up the sun and spend quality time together, whether you're seeking relaxation or exploring kid-friendly attractions.
